Arborist

Arborists are sometimes called urban foresters. They are the people who care for the trees that grow along our streets, in our parks, and around our houses. They prevent, diagnose, and treat tree diseases, nutrient deficiencies, and structural problems that threaten the health of trees. In order to do this job well, arborists must actually climb trees and prune limbs. They must know how to handle a chain saw, chip machines, ropes and climbing gear, pruning equipment, and stump grinding equipment. Arborists are constantly busy, performing all the activities to help trees in urban settings to live long healthy lives, or removing them after they are dead or lose limbs.

While much of their work is physical, being an arborist is not only about muscle. Arborists combine physical work with scientific know-how and a feel for design. Yes, they do all of the physical work involved with examining, pruning, fertilizing, and removing trees, but they also have an extensive knowledge of basic botany, tree physiology, and the pests and diseases that afflict trees.
Arborists work in a broad spectrum of settings. Most arborists work for private tree care companies. Some arborists work for utility companies, making sure that trees that are close to power lines are trimmed. Others work for companies that maintain trees for homeowners and private land-owners. Still others work as consultants or for city and county governments.